Remember to stay safe

  • Published
  • By Col. Steve Arquiette
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing commander
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  This weekend, we remember, honor and give thanks to those who died in service to this nation. We honor all of the brave men and women of our armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the freedom we hold so dear. We decorate their graves with flags as proof that we have not forgotten and we promise that we will never forget. 

We honor these servicemembers in different ways -- visits to grave sites, parades, family barbecues and more. We not only honor those who came before us, but also those who are currently spending their Memorial Day in deployed locations. Our Airmen have been engaged in combat operations for more than 15 years, from the Persian Gulf War to the present conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan. More than 3,000 young men and women have given their lives in the cause for freedom. These courageous individuals stood toe to toe with our adversaries, shielding America by keeping war from reaching our front door. 

Each of them knew what their duty was, but surely each of them also dreamed of coming home to the people they loved and the lives they cherished. Every human loss is a loss to our nation, to our military, and most importantly, to the families they left behind. Let's continue to make sure these heroes are never forgotten -- on this Memorial Day and every day. And please take the opportunity to spend time with your family and take a breather from our otherwise busy schedules. 

This weekend also marks the beginning of 101 Critical Days of Summer. Monday's Safety Focus Day highlighted issues ranging from the new Voluntary Protection Program to outdoor/summer safety. The Air Force recognizes that the upcoming 101 days of the year have historically been some of the worst for safety related incidents. 

Over the past five years, Air Mobility Command experienced 22 fatalities during the 101 Critical Days period: one drowned, two died in ATV operations, and the remainder was due to motor vehicle mishaps (seven motorcycle and 12 automobile). The leading causes of these mishaps include fatigue, alcohol and speeding -- all irresponsible choices. It is this awareness of our vulnerabilities that forces us to take a step back and focus on putting safety first in everything we do. 

Many of us use these warm summer months to barbecue, spend time at the lake and do other fun, yet potentially dangerous, activities. It is up to YOU to use good judgment while enjoying these activities. I can't stress enough how important your safety and well-being are to me, your friends, co-workers and family. So take this weekend to reflect on those who have given their lives for our freedom and to have a safe and enjoyable time with family and friends. 

BE PROUD, BE SAFE!